George Atkinson III

College career

Atkinson played college football at Notre Dame, where he was used in multiple roles. At the collegiate level he was known for versatility and willingness to contribute on offense and special teams. While not a frequent starter, he demonstrated enough athletic ability and adaptability to attract interest from professional teams after college.

Professional career

After the 2014 draft he signed with the Oakland Raiders as an undrafted free agent. Over the next several seasons he spent time with multiple NFL organizations, often moving between practice squads and active rosters:

• Cleveland Browns
• Kansas City Chiefs
• New York Jets

His professional tenure illustrates the path of many undrafted players who carve out roles through special teams play, short-term contracts, and perseverance in a highly competitive league.

Playing style and role

Atkinson was valued for athleticism, quickness, and a team-first approach. In the NFL he filled roles typical of depth backs: contributing on kickoff and punt coverage and return units, filling in on offense when called upon, and providing practice depth. Such dual contributions are common for players seeking long-term opportunities in professional football.

Death and legacy

Atkinson died on December 2, 2019, at age 27. The circumstances of his death and the subsequent media coverage underscored wider concerns about mental health, post-career support, and medical issues facing former contact-sport athletes. His passing prompted conversations among fans, former teammates, and sports commentators about how institutions and communities can better support players after their playing days end.

Though his time in the NFL was brief compared with many, Atkinson's journey from college to professional football and the attention surrounding his death contributed to ongoing debates over player welfare, the risks associated with contact sports, and the resources available to athletes transitioning away from competition.